Lisandro Martínez Then and Now
By Cornell Scott / August 25, 2025
As the football world enters 2025, few players embody resilience, intelligence, and leadership quite like Lisandro Martínez.
Once doubted for his height and physicality, the Argentine defender has risen to become one of the Premier League’s most respected center-backs and a cornerstone of Manchester United’s defensive revival.
From his humble beginnings in a small Argentine town to starring at Old Trafford and lifting silverware on the biggest stages, Martínez’s journey is a story of grit, adaptability, and footballing intelligence.
Then: The Humble Beginnings – A Fighter from Quilmes (1998–2019)
1. Early Life and Grassroots Football
Born on January 18, 1998, in Quilmes, Argentina, Lisandro David Martínez grew up in a modest family where football was both passion and escape. Standing at just 1.75m (5’9”), he was often overlooked by scouts who favored taller, more physically imposing defenders.
But Lisandro Martínez had something more valuable: courage, reading of the game, and an unrelenting will to win.
He began his career at Club Atlético Independiente’s youth academy, but was released at 17 for being “too small.” Undeterred, he joined Newell’s Old Boys, where he played for their reserve team before moving to Defensa y Justicia in 2017—a second-division club known for developing tactical players.
2. Breakthrough in Argentina and Rise at Ajax
At Defensa y Justicia, Martínez quickly became a starter, showcasing his aggressive pressing, ball-playing ability, and fearless tackling. His performances earned him a move to AFC Ajax in the Netherlands in 2019 for just €7.5 million—a bargain that would soon be seen as one of the smartest signings in Eredivisie history.
At Ajax, under the guidance of Erik ten Hag, Martínez thrived:
- Played a key role in Ajax’s 2021 Eredivisie title and domestic double
- Excelled in the UEFA Champions League, helping Ajax reach the quarterfinals
- Formed a formidable partnership with Daley Blind, often playing as a left-sided center-back or defensive midfielder
Despite his stature, he dominated elite attackers through timing, intelligence, and composure. By 2022, he was ranked among Europe’s most progressive defenders for pass completion, interceptions, and duels won.
Related: Takefusa Kubo Then and Now
The Rise: Overcoming Doubt at Manchester United (2022–2024)
1. A Bold Move to Old Trafford
In July 2022, newly appointed Manchester United manager Erik ten Hag made Lisandro Martínez one of his first signings, bringing him to Old Trafford for €57.4 million—a high fee for a player of his size and profile.
The move was met with widespread skepticism:
- “Too short for the Premier League”
- “Can’t handle physical strikers”
- “A gamble that won’t pay off”
But Martínez responded the only way he knew how: with relentless performances, fearless challenges, and leadership beyond his years.
2. Injury and Redemption
Lisandro Martínez’s early United career was disrupted by a serious ankle injury in October 2022, keeping him out for nearly nine months. Many feared the worst—that the physical demands of English football had broken him.
But in 2023, he returned stronger than ever. By the 2023–24 season, he had become indispensable:
- Played center-back and occasionally defensive midfield
- Formed a solid partnership with Harry Maguire and later Raphaël Varane
- Led United’s high-pressing, ball-playing defensive system
- Scored crucial goals, including a last-minute header against Chelsea
His ability to step into midfield, carry the ball forward, and dictate tempo made him a vital cog in Ten Hag’s system.
3. Major Silverware in 2024
Under Ten Hag, Manchester United experienced a resurgence. In 2024, the club won:
- EFL Cup – Martínez played every minute of the knockout stages
- FA Cup – Started in the final, delivering a man-of-the-match performance
- Qualified for the UEFA Champions League after a four-year absence
Martínez was named Manchester United Players’ Player of the Year (2024) and shortlisted for the PFA Team of the Year, silencing critics and earning the love of the Old Trafford faithful.
Related: Yassine Bounou Then and Now
Now: A Leader in 2025 – Captaincy, Maturity, and Global Recognition
1. Defensive Leader and Tactical Genius
By 2025, Lisandro Martínez is no longer just a player—he is Manchester United’s defensive general. Now 27, he has matured into a calm, vocal leader on the pitch, often organizing the backline and mentoring younger defenders like Leny Yoro and Diogo Dalot.
His playing style has evolved:
- More disciplined positioning – fewer reckless tackles, more anticipation
- Improved aerial ability – winning more duels despite his height
- Key in build-up play – one of the top passers from defense in the Premier League
- Master of the “sweeper-keeper” system, often stepping into midfield to maintain possession
He’s become the epitome of the modern ball-playing defender—a hybrid of warrior and technician.
2. Captaincy and Club Legacy
With the departure of long-time leaders, Martínez has taken on increased leadership responsibilities. Though not officially named captain, he wears the vice-captain’s armband and is widely seen as the emotional heart of the team.
Fans chant his name, and his “never give up” attitude has become a symbol of United’s new identity under Ten Hag.
3. International Stardom with Argentina
Lisandro Martínez’s success at club level has mirrored his triumphs with the Argentina national team:
- Copa América 2021 Champion
- Finalissima 2022 Winner (vs. Italy)
- 2022 FIFA World Cup Champion – Played in key knockout matches, including the final
- Copa América 2024 Champion – Vital in defense as Argentina defended their title
Teammates like Lionel Messi and Emiliano Martínez have praised his courage, loyalty, and intelligence. He’s now a trusted figure in Scaloni’s squad, often preferred over taller options due to his tactical understanding.
4. Global Recognition and Legacy
By 2025, Martínez is recognized worldwide as:
- One of the most underrated defenders of his generation
- A symbol of how intelligence can outweigh physicality
- A role model for smaller players in defensive positions
He’s been featured in:
- FIFA 25 (rated 87 overall)
- Ballon d’Or shortlist discussions (Top 30 in 2024)
- Adidas campaigns celebrating resilience and skill
His story is taught in academies as proof that heart, IQ, and work ethic can overcome any perceived limitation.
Related: Marc-André ter Stegen Then and Now
Personal Life and Character
Lisandro Martínez is known for his humble, grounded personality. He lives in Cheshire with his long-time partner Eugenia, and the couple welcomed their first child in 2024—an event he called “the greatest victory of my life.”
He’s active in charity work, supporting children’s football programs in Argentina and mental health initiatives in the UK. He frequently visits hospitals and schools, emphasizing the importance of perseverance and education.
Despite his fame, he remains close to his roots, often returning to Quilmes and funding local football projects.
Cultural Impact and Legacy
Lisandro Martínez represents a new archetype in modern football:
- The intelligent defender who wins with mind, not just muscle
- The undersized warrior who defies stereotypes
- The team-first player who leads through action, not words
He’s inspired a generation of young defenders—especially in South America—to believe that size doesn’t define strength.
Moreover, his journey from being released by Independiente to becoming a World Cup winner and Premier League leader is a modern football fairy tale—one built not on luck, but on relentless belief.
Related: Jan Oblak Then and Now
Conclusion: Lisandro Martínez – Then and Now (In 2025)
- Then: A 1.75m defender from Quilmes, told he was “too small,” fighting for a chance in Argentina’s lower leagues.
- Now: A World Cup champion, FA Cup winner, Manchester United leader, and global symbol of resilience and intelligence.
Lisandro Martínez’s story is not just about football—it’s about defying odds, trusting your instincts, and never backing down. He didn’t just adapt to the Premier League; he mastered it on his own terms.
As he enters the prime years of his career in 2025, one thing is certain:
Lisandro Martínez isn’t just holding the line.
He’s redefining it.
🛡️ “They said I was too small. I said I was just the right size to slide in and win the ball.” – Lisandro Martínez
Related: Manuel Neuer Then and Now